When New Balance launched the New Balance Tekela v5 Elite, it was clear they wanted to make a statement. After four generations of knitted uppers, the brand switched things up by introducing a new synthetic leather material — and the results are nothing short of impressive.
In this New Balance Tekela v5 review, I’ll share my honest thoughts on what this football boot gets right (and where it falls short), so you can decide if it’s worth adding to your gear lineup.
First Impressions: A Fresh Direction from New Balance
Right out of the box, the New Balance Tekela v5 Elite feels like something new. The upper, called Dynamic Touch Tech, replaces the knit material used in previous Tekela models. It’s an incredibly soft synthetic leather that feels almost unreal to the touch. From the moment I slipped my foot inside, I could tell this was going to be different.
Many synthetic uppers take a while to break in — usually around 30 minutes of play before they truly soften up. The Tekela v5, however, feels supple immediately. It molds to the foot effortlessly, creating a glove-like fit that’s both pliable and supportive. Honestly, this might be one of the softest synthetic uppers I’ve ever worn.
Inside, the textile liner adds comfort, though I personally would have loved a thin suede liner to make it a bit more plush. Still, once the upper molds to your foot, you hardly notice the liner at all.
The Fit: Comfort Meets Precision
The Tekela v5 Elite is built on the same last as the previous Tekela v4, which means it maintains that comfortable, anatomical shape with a slightly wider forefoot and snug midfoot. The combination of a pointy toe box and ultra-soft material allows the boot to conform naturally around the foot.
Even for someone like me — with a high big toe and usually needing extra toe box volume — the fit was flawless. The upper’s flexibility means no discomfort, no pressure points, and no long break-in period.
If you have a wider midfoot, you’ll appreciate that New Balance also offers a 4E wide version. For my normal-to-narrow foot shape, the standard fit was perfect. It hugs the foot without feeling restrictive, striking a great balance between support and comfort.
One area New Balance deserves credit for is the redesigned Hypoknit collar. It’s tighter than before, eliminating the bunching that occurred in the Tekela v4. The collar also shifts slightly toward the medial side to reduce pressure on the peroneal nerve — a thoughtful detail that improves comfort for players who lace tightly or have raised insteps.
Heel Design: Secure, Supportive, and Hug-Like
The heel construction on the Tekela v5 is easily one of the best in the game. New Balance slightly reduced the curvature of the heel to relieve pressure on the Achilles, while also hollowing out the heel counter to reduce pressure on the heel bone.
The result? A secure yet cushioned lock-in that feels like a firm, supportive hug. The suede liner inside the heel adds luxury and grip, ensuring zero heel slippage even during explosive movements. It’s snug in all the right areas but leaves a bit of space under the heel ball to prevent discomfort.
Size-wise, I recommend going half a size up from your normal size. I usually wear 25 cm (US 7), but the 25.5 cm (US 7.5) fit me perfectly. Going true-to-size might feel too tight, so take my word for it — size up slightly for optimal comfort.
Touch and Feel: Dynamic Touch Tech in Action
The star of this boot is clearly its Dynamic Touch Tech upper. To enhance control, New Balance added tiny 3D silicone microdots across the upper — denser in key touch zones and more spaced out in secondary areas. These raised dots add a subtle grippy texture, helping you maintain better control in dribbles and passes without feeling sticky.
The touch feels elegant, responsive, and well-balanced between softness and grip. While it doesn’t replicate the plush pillow-like sensation of premium leather boots, it still offers a refined, tactile experience. You feel close to the ball, with just enough feedback for confident first touches.
The toe box is relatively low and pointy, giving the boot a nimble, quick sensation on the ball. There’s a tiny bit of dead space up front, but it’s minimal and easy to adjust to after a few sessions.
The Outsole: Familiar but Functional
New Balance didn’t reinvent the wheel here. The Tekela v5 uses the same outsole as the Tekela v4 and v4+, featuring a mix of conical and bladed studs. It’s a solid design for firm ground (FG) use, providing good rotational traction and decent bite when changing directions.
The conical studs excel for smooth pivoting, while the side bladed studs give extra grip during lateral cuts. However, this hybrid setup also makes it less suitable for artificial grass (AG). The bladed studs can catch the turf, increasing the risk of injuries, so I recommend sticking to natural grass.
The outsole feels a bit on the soft side, which adds comfort but slightly reduces responsiveness in the forefoot. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I would have liked a bit more snapback during sprints or quick takeoffs. Still, the traction performance remains consistent and stable.
Performance on the Pitch: New Balance Tekela v5
On the pitch, the Tekela v5 shines where it matters most — comfort, touch, and fit. It feels lightweight and balanced, allowing quick turns and agile movements. The upper’s responsiveness gives you great feedback without stiffness, which is ideal for creative midfielders or attacking players who rely on close control.
The lockdown, while generally solid, could be slightly improved. The lacing system is short and somewhat shallow, limiting how much you can adjust the tightness in the midfoot. Adding an extra lace hole or slightly deeper pattern could improve customizability. That said, most players will still find the lockdown adequate for dynamic play.
The heel structure, as mentioned, is excellent — perhaps the best part of the entire boot. Once it’s laced up, the boot feels like an extension of your foot, ready to move in any direction without slippage or discomfort.
Small Drawbacks Worth Mentioning
No football boot is perfect, and the Tekela v5 has a few minor issues worth noting:
- Midfoot Lockdown Could Be Better:
A longer or deeper lacing system would provide more adjustability and personalized fit. - Narrow Heel Fit:
While the sculpted heel is fantastic for most players, those with wider heels might feel a bit squeezed. - Stud Configuration Learning Curve:
The side studs can take time to get used to. During my first few sessions, I found myself adjusting to their placement, especially when stepping on the ball or performing sole rolls. - Forefoot Flex:
The outsole’s forefoot feels a touch too soft, reducing that energetic snap some players prefer.
These aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re worth considering if you prioritize a certain type of lockdown or ground feel.
New Balance Tekela v5: Design and Aesthetics
Visually, the New Balance Tekela v5 Elite is sleek and futuristic. The blend of matte and glossy textures across the upper gives it a refined look, while the microdots and branding subtly enhance its modern appeal. The streamlined silhouette reflects both speed and sophistication — it’s a boot that looks as good as it feels.
The colorways are equally impressive. New Balance has balanced performance with personality, offering designs that stand out without being overly flashy. Whether you prefer classic tones or bold, modern palettes, there’s something to match every player’s taste.
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Durability and Build Quality
After several weeks of testing, the Tekela v5 continues to perform consistently. The upper hasn’t shown significant creasing or wear, which is a good sign for long-term durability. The synthetic leather resists scuffs better than natural leather, and the reinforced stitching around high-stress zones helps maintain structure over time.
The outsole’s durability also holds up well. The studs remain firm with minimal abrasion, even after multiple sessions on firm natural grass. This means you can expect a solid lifespan from the boot — certainly competitive with other elite-level models in its category.
Who Should Buy the New Balance Tekela v5?
If comfort, fit, and touch are at the top of your list, the Tekela v5 is a standout choice. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Playmakers and midfielders who need precise touch and control.
- Attackers who value agility and responsiveness.
- Players with normal-to-wide feet seeking a snug but forgiving fit.
- Anyone upgrading from older Tekela models — this is a big leap forward.
However, if you prefer an ultra-firm outsole or an extremely locked-in midfoot feel, you might want to try before you buy. Still, for most players, the Tekela v5 delivers exceptional comfort and playability.
Comparison with Previous Tekela Models
Compared to the Tekela v4 and v4+, the v5 represents a true evolution. The switch from knit to Dynamic Touch Tech synthetic leather fundamentally changes the feel of the boot — softer, more responsive, and instantly comfortable. The improved Hypoknit collar also solves one of the biggest complaints from v4 users: bunching and inconsistent stretch.
In short, the Tekela v5 combines the best elements of both worlds — the structured feel of synthetic leather with the adaptability of knit. It’s more refined, more stable, and more polished overall.
Final Verdict: A Dark Horse for Boot of the Year
After spending time with the Tekela v5, I can confidently say it’s one of the most surprising boots of the year. The New Balance Tekela v5 review reveals a football boot that blends luxurious comfort with impressive performance. While it isn’t perfect — the outsole and lacing could use slight refinements — its positives far outweigh the negatives.
For me, the Tekela v5 stands out as one of the most naturally fitting and comfortable boots available right now. The Dynamic Touch Tech upper is a triumph of innovation, delivering that “just right” balance between softness and responsiveness.
If you loved the Tekela v4, you’ll absolutely enjoy this version. And if you’ve never tried a New Balance boot before, the Tekela v5 is the perfect place to start.
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Conclusion: New Balance Tekela v5 Review
The New Balance Tekela v5 Elite proves that comfort and control can coexist in a single package. With its soft synthetic upper, supportive heel, and adaptive fit, it redefines what a modern football boot can feel like. Despite a few minor drawbacks, it’s easily among the top contenders for 2025’s best new release.
Whether you’re an experienced player or a weekend warrior, the Tekela v5 offers a unique experience that blends innovation with pure comfort. In the crowded world of football boots, this one truly stands out — not just for how it looks, but for how naturally it performs.
Verdict: A must-try for players seeking ultimate comfort and natural touch — a genuine sleeper hit in 2025’s boot lineup.
James Walker is a professional writer and passionate football enthusiast who specializes in reviewing soccer cleats. With years of hands-on experience testing different models on various surfaces, he offers honest and detailed insights that help players choose the best cleats for their playing style and position. His reviews focus on real performance factors such as traction, comfort, ball control, and durability, making them valuable to both amateur and professional players.
Driven by a deep love for the game, James is committed to helping footballers find gear that enhances their performance and reduces the risk of injury. From world-famous brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma to rising names in the market, his balanced and informative reviews are trusted by readers who want expert advice before buying their next pair of soccer cleats.
